The new technology essentially replaces the degenerated cells in the retina and helps patients perceive patterns of light in the brain. People then learn to interpret these patterns of light — and thereby regain some visual function.
The retinal implant does not restore complete vision. But it does allow people to detect light and dark in the environment and identify the location or movement of people and objects.
Results from a clinical study of 30 participants who received the “bionic eyes” reported that most were able to perform basic activities better with the prosthesis than without it. They could walk on a sidewalk without stepping off the curb; match black, grey, and white socks; and recognize large letters, words and sentences.
After two decades of development and testing and more than $200 million in funding, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the system in 2013. The retinal prosthesis is a game changer for sight-affecting diseases — and a huge step forward for the thousands of people who previously had no other treatment options.